Isla Catalina
Beach, reef and shipwreck on an island off La Romana
/EES-lah kah-tah-LEE-nah/
Catalina Island
Definition
Isla Catalina is a small island off La Romana, with beaches, coral reefs and a well-known wreck, a popular snorkelling and diving destination.
Overview
Isla Catalina is a small island off La Romana, featuring beaches and coral reefs. It is a popular destination for snorkelling and diving excursions, and is associated with a well-known wreck near its shores. It combines relaxed beach time with underwater exploration.
Natural and cultural significance
Its value lies in its reefs and marine life, and in offering a day-trip alternative to other larger islands in the area.
Main features
Beaches, coral reefs, snorkelling and diving, with a shipwreck as an underwater attraction.
Landscape and ecosystem
The island is surrounded by reefs and underwater seagrass meadows, in a marine environment in the south-east of the country.
Wildlife
Reef fish, corals and marine life associated with shallow seabeds and seagrass beds.
What visitors should know
Excursions are organised from La Romana and Bayahíbe; diving is carried out with licensed operators.
How the place is accessed
Reached by boat from La Romana or Bayahíbe, on day tours.
Responsible visiting
Do not touch or stand on the corals, maintain good buoyancy control when diving, and choose operators with reef-friendly practices.
La Romana
Excursions to Isla Catalina and other south-eastern islands are organised from La Romana.
La RomanaRelated dictionary entries
Isla Saona
Isla Saona is a protected island in the southeast of the Dominican Republic, part of Cotubanamá National Park, renowned for its beaches, mangroves, and marine ecosystems.
Altos de Chavón
Altos de Chavón is a cultural and architectural complex built in the 20th century within Casa de Campo near La Romana. The ensemble evokes a 16th-century Mediterranean village and houses, among other things, an amphitheater, an archaeological museum, a church, galleries, craft workshops and facilities for art and design.
Frequently asked questions
What does Isla Catalina have to offer?
Beaches, coral reefs and a well-known shipwreck for snorkelling and diving.
How do you get there?
By boat from La Romana or Bayahíbe, on day excursions.
Is it a good place for diving?
Yes, with reefs and a shipwreck; it is best to dive with care for the coral and with responsible operators.